Solecta leverages EDC programs to strengthen talent pipeline, expand internationally

COMPANY

CHALLENGE

When applying to WTCSD’s MetroConnect program, Solecta emphasized its need to strategically grow its international footprint. The company’s separation solutions are used in highly technical and tightly regulated manufacturing environments where success depends on the ability to tailor both the product offering and the go-to-market approach to each client, application, and regional context.

Additionally, like many companies in the tech and manufacturing sectors, Solecta faced challenges attracting and retaining top talent. As a small business competing with larger firms that offer higher wages and structured internship programs, Solecta struggled to hire diverse students while managing limited time and resources for talent recruitment. Attracting local talent who wanted to remain in the San Diego region had been a priority for the company to ensure long-term retention and stability in its workforce.

EDC SOLUTION AND SUPPORT PROVIDED

Solecta applied to WTCSD’s export accelerator MetroConnect and, through a competitive application process, was named among 15 growing companies accepted into its sixth cohort in 2022.

As the company planned to go global, Solecta leveraged MetroConnect’s resources, including:

• $5,000 MetroConnect grant to support outreach initiatives aimed at potential clients outside of the U.S. that contributed to the gain of significant new business in Europe and Mexico.
• Expand its international outreach, resulting in a 185 percent increase in website traffic, longer visit durations, and more pages viewed.
• STEP grant consulting to secure $5,000 for export-related activities to grow its international presence.

Following MetroConnect, Solecta applied and was selected to host paid interns through EDC’s Advancing San Diego internship program, funded by the K-16 Collaborative. The program connected Solecta with vetted local talent from Verified Programs in engineering, computing, and business, ensuring interns were well-prepared for their roles.

EDC’s Advancing San Diego program funded competitive wages for summer interns at Solecta, removing recruitment and financial barriers while enabling the company to integrate interns into key projects immediately.

The interns provided much-needed support to project teams, helping Solecta meet operational demands while assessing the interns’ potential for follow-on assignments or full employment. This partnership not only strengthened Solecta’s workforce but also reinforced its commitment to developing and retaining regional talent.

VALUE DERIVED

The $5,000 MetroConnect grant supported Solecta’s outreach initiatives to potential clients outside the U.S., resulting in significant new business in Europe and Mexico. In March 2023, the company also applied for and won a $5,000 STEP grant, thanks to hands-on support from Export SBDC’s advisors in producing a strategic export promotion plan.

Through Advancing San Diego’s 2024 internship cohort, Solecta offered two local interns the opportunity to continue working while finishing their academic programs. The interns worked 240 hours during the summer, earning $22 an hour plus support services as paid for by the program. Additionally, one intern transitioned into a regular part-time IT Technician role.

Since hiring funded interns, Solecta has benefited from access to a diverse talent pool from local Verified Programs and gained visibility as a regional employer of choice for emerging professionals. The program has been instrumental in helping the company scale quickly, with interns making immediate contributions in their roles.

“EDC and WTCSD have helped Solecta tap into a wealth of resources, including export funding and qualified, local talent. With presence in international markets and a strong talent base here at home, we’re looking forward to the continued growth and impact ahead.”

—Maria Cooper, Senior Human Resources Director, Solecta

Connect with Solecta:

• Website: solecta.com
• Social media: LinkedIn

For more information and to learn more:

Taylor Dunne

Director, Talent Initiatives

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